Ol'tau Safaris

Northern Circuit Route

Start From $ 2365Per Person

Northern Circuit Route Summit Success Rate

The Northern Circuit Route is the longest and one of the most spectacular routes on Mount Kilimanjaro. Designed for excellent acclimatization and a very high summit success rate, this route circles the remote northern slopes of the mountain, offering breathtaking panoramic views, diverse landscapes, and fewer crowds compared to other routes. This 10-day adventure with Oltau Safaris & Tours provides maximum acclimatization time, stunning 360° mountain scenery, quiet and peaceful trails, professional and experienced mountain guides, and a strong safety-first monitoring system throughout the climb. It is the perfect choice for climbers seeking the ideal balance between comfort, safety, and a successful summit experience.

Climbing Kilimanjaro can take different durations depending on the chosen route and acclimatization preference:

  • 6–7 Days – Shorter routes (more challenging, lower acclimatization time)

  • 8 Days – Better acclimatization and improved summit success

  • 9 Days – Very good balance of comfort and success rate

  • 10 Days (Northern Circuit) – Best acclimatization, highest success rate, and most scenic experience

For the highest chance of reaching the summit safely and comfortably, we recommend 8 to 10 days, especially for first-time high-altitude climbers.

If you want, I can also create a small comparison table for your website to make it look more professional.

Start From $ 2365 Per Person

8 Days

Northern Circuit Route

GALLERY

Plan My Trip

ITINERARY

Upon arrival at Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), you will be warmly welcomed by an Oltau Safaris & Tours representative and transferred to your hotel in Moshi or Arusha.

In the evening, our mountain experts will conduct a full pre-climb briefing and equipment check to ensure you are fully prepared.

Important:

  • Hotel check-in starts at 2:00 PM

  • Group transfers are included

  • Extra private transfers may incur additional charges

After breakfast, drive to the western entrance of Kilimanjaro National Park — Londorossi Gate (2,250 m).

After registration, you continue by vehicle to a high-altitude drop-off point (3,414 m), where your trek begins toward Shira 1 Camp.

The short and gentle hike allows your body to begin acclimatizing properly.

Distance: 4 km
Time: 1 hour

Begin drinking 3–4 liters of water daily and monitor your body carefully.

Today’s moderate trek offers incredible views across the Shira Plateau. On clear days, you may even see Mount Meru in the distance.

After lunch and rest, an acclimatization hike toward Lava Tower improves altitude adaptation.

Distance: 7 km
Time: 3–4 hours

You ascend to Lava Tower (4,600 m), an important acclimatization point. After lunch, you descend slightly to Moir Hut Camp.

This “climb high, sleep low” strategy significantly increases summit success.

Distance: 14 km
Time: 5–7 hours

Today you trek across the remote northern slopes of Kilimanjaro. The trail offers breathtaking views toward Kenya’s plains.

This section is less crowded and extremely scenic.

Distance: 12 km
Time: 5–7 hours

You continue across the northern slopes and join the Rongai Route near Third Cave Camp.

By now, your body is well acclimatized to the altitude.

Distance: 8 km
Time: 4–6 hours

Today you trek to School Hut (4,800 m), your final base camp before summit night.

Rest, hydrate, and sleep early. Tonight, your summit attempt begins.

Distance: 5 km
Time: 4–5 hours

Around midnight, you begin your ascent toward Uhuru Peak (5,895 m) — the highest point in Africa.

Each pair of climbers is closely monitored by a professional guide for safety.

After celebrating at the summit, you descend to Barafu Camp for rest before continuing to Millennium Camp.

Distance: 16 km
Time: 10–13 hours

Most accidents occur during descent. Walk carefully and follow guide instructions.

After breakfast, descend through lush rainforest to Mweka Gate, the exit of Kilimanjaro National Park.

You will receive your summit certificate and celebrate your incredible achievement.

Distance: 12 km
Time: 4–5 hours

Transfer back to your hotel for a well-earned rest.

Enjoy a relaxed morning before your transfer to the airport.

Hotel check-out: 11:00 AM
Late check-out available at additional cost if required.

INCLUDED

EXCLUDED

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